See Microsoft Offers to License the Internet on Slashdot
“According to an eWeek (Is Microsoft Ready to Assert IP Rights over the Internet?) story Microsoft is beginning to assert IP rights over 130 protocols including many basic Internet protocols including TCP/IP, DNS, etc. The story originates with a mailing list post to the IETF’s IPR list.”
In the words of Glenn Peterson:
Glenn Peterson, an IP attorney and shareholder with Sacramento-based law firm McDonough Holland & Allen, agreed with Blunk “It is not clear to what degree, if any, that Microsoft has enforceable intellectual property rights in the 130 protocols identified in the so-called ‘royalty-free’ license agreement.”
“Thus, by signing the agreement as it presently stands, one might be agreeing to certain things gratuitously, meaning simply that the licensee agrees to give Microsoft continuing control over how the protocols are used,” Peterson said. “Among other things, the agreement gives Microsoft ongoing control over enhancements and updates, including the right to charge a license for them in the future.”